What do social activism, New Zealand music, queer politics, and Koko the talking gorilla have in common? You learn about them in Cultural Studies!
Cultural Studies analyses the dynamics of contemporary culture, as well as its historical and social roots. 'Culture' is understood as practice, process and product, but with an emphasis on culture as a site of social and political struggle. When we consider the 'textuality’ of culture, traditional distinctions between so-called 'high' and 'low' culture are abandoned: graphic novels, nature documentaries, and street art become significant texts alongside, say, literary fiction or opera.
Cultural Studies is an interdisciplinary and politically engaged field, drawing on the perspectives, methods, and theories of numerous fields of study. Our unique programme is the only one in New Zealand, and our courses are taught by lecturers from more than a dozen departments.
